Rwanda-backed M23 rebels declared a unilateral ceasefire in Goma amid violent clashes, controlling the city despite ongoing fighting. Recent battles resulted in at least 900 deaths, and they plan to advance toward Bukavu while asserting civilian protection. The humanitarian crisis escalates as thousands flee to Rwanda, reflecting the ethnic tensions tied to the historical context of the Rwandan genocide.
The Rwanda-backed M23 rebels declared a unilateral ceasefire in Goma, eastern Congo, on humanitarian grounds. Despite this announcement, they continue to control Goma, a city central to a region rich in minerals worth trillions. The ceasefire follows a recent surge in violence claiming at least 900 lives amid ongoing conflicts between the rebels and Congolese forces.
Following the seizure of Goma, the rebels are reportedly advancing toward another city, Bukavu, asserting their commitment to civilian protection. M23 spokesman Lawrence Kanyuka clarified that there are no plans to capture Bukavu or other regions, even as they aim for the Congolese capital, Kinshasa, which is about 1,000 miles away.
The Congolese government has yet to respond to the ceasefire announcement, which was made prior to a summit between leaders from southern and eastern Africa, aiming to address the unrest. President William Ruto of Kenya stated that presidents from Congo and Rwanda would be present at this joint summit.
U.N. experts have reported around 4,000 Rwandan troops supporting the M23 rebels, a significant increase from their previous incursion in 2012. The M23 is currently the most powerful among over 100 armed groups in eastern Congo, an area known for its substantial mineral reserves crucial to global technology.
The ongoing conflict has led to mass displacement, forcing numerous individuals and families to flee their homes once again, with thousands crossing into Rwanda despite the latter denying support for the M23. Historical ethnic tensions are linked to this conflict, as M23 claims to defend ethnic Tutsis in Congo against persecution from Hutus and former militias associated with the 1994 Rwandan genocide.
Desperate families in Goma are seeking to identify their deceased loved ones amid the turmoil. Chiza Nyenyezi mourned her son, a victim of the violence, expressing heartbreak over the circumstances of his death. Louise Shalukoma also shared her pain about losing her fourth child, lamenting the brutality of the ongoing conflict.
The article focuses on the recent developments in eastern Congo, where the M23 rebels, allegedly backed by Rwanda, have seized Goma, a strategically significant city. The situation is exacerbated by a recent surge in violence leading to significant civilian casualties. The historical context includes complex ethnic tensions stemming from the 1994 Rwandan genocide and ongoing conflict in the region, further complicating peace efforts and humanitarian conditions.
The unilateral ceasefire declared by the M23 rebels highlights the volatile situation in eastern Congo, where control of Goma has significant implications due to its mineral wealth. While the ceasefire is positioned on humanitarian grounds, the rebels maintain a threatening presence in the region, moving towards further objectives despite the toll the conflict is taking on civilians. International diplomatic efforts are underway to address the crisis and restore stability in the region.
Original Source: www.pbs.org
